Treating hip bursitis with bromelain

I have bursitis in my hip. A friend said you published a home remedy that helped.

A reader recently took us to task for not recommending bromelain for bursitis: "In just a couple of days the pain is gone. Those who continued to take it for a week after that got rid of their bursitis."

The enzyme bromelain is extracted from pineapple. Many animal studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. A clinical trial on people with painful arthritic hips found that bromelain (under the brand name Phlogenzym) was just as effective as the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac (Voltaren).







I have diarrhea regularly. I have the most success with Pepto-Bismol. Is it harmful to take one or two tablets three or four times a week?

Pepto-Bismol has a long history dating to the early 20th century. It was originally developed to treat severe diarrhea in babies. The active ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate. It's a remedy for a wide range of digestive problems, including heartburn, diarrhea and nausea. Because the label says you can safely take as many as 16 tablets in 24 hours, your dose is not unreasonable.

Despite its safety record, Pepto-Bismol is not meant to treat a chronic condition. Too much bismuth can lead to loss of appetite, canker sores and poor nutrient absorption. The salicylate component can cause ringing in the ears. Check with your doctor about the cause of the diarrhea.

Reach Joe Graedon, a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedon, an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition, at www.peoplespharmacy.com or in care of this newspaper.